Iran biggest untapped ski resort in world

'For most skiers and snowboarders the idea of an off-piste paradise normally conjures up thoughts of Alaska’s majestic peaks, Verbier’s world-famous freeride terrain or Japan’s legendary powder fields.'

'Many, forgivably, would not consider looking to the mountains of Iran.'

'But hoping to lift the curtain on Iran’s off-piste terrain is Snoworks, a UK-based provider of ski courses around the world. The company has announced a new trip to Iran’s top resorts for British skiers next March, run in conjunction with tour operator Mountain Heaven.'

'Mountain Heaven MD Nick Williams visited the country in March 2016 and was impressed enough by the terrain, food, friendly people and atmospheric mountain cafés to launch holidays. The Snoworks trip combines four of Iran’s main ski resorts: Dizin, Shemshak, Darbandsar and Tochal.'

'All the resorts have untapped off-piste areas that are accessed by lift, but most skiers and snowboarders have probably never heard of them. Mountain Heaven also offers a holiday to Dizin, Shemshak and Darbandsar which, while not recommended for beginners, is more piste based.'

The Alborz Mountains, in northern Iran, stretch from the border with Azerbaijan and along the western and southern coast of the Caspian Sea. These holidays visit resorts in the centre of the mountain range, north of the Iranian capital of Tehran.

Iran’s ski areas reach altitudes that overshadow those of even the highest resorts in the Alps.

“Skiing in Iran offers a true adventure, combining amazing culture and unforgettable skiing experiences,” The Daily Telegraph quoted Phil Smith, Director of Snoworks as saying.

“We'll be flying into Tehran with a city stopover before heading high up into the Alborz Mountain Range north of Tehran. Skiing in Iran is little known outside of the country, but there’s an immense mountain range, largely untapped.” 

'Snoworks is running its trip from March 10 – 18, 2018, costing £2,545 per person, based on two sharing a room.'

'The price includes transfers, bed & breakfast accommodation provided by Ski Adventure Iran in partnership with Mountain Heaven, evening meals in ski resorts, visa approval service, guiding instruction from Snoworks and entrance fees for any sightseeing in Tehran.'